Many questions surround a family after a loved one suffers a stroke.  A person who is lucky enough to survive is going to have to make some lifestyle changes and depending upon the severity of the stroke, a caregiver is going to be necessary for recovery.

A stroke occurs when brain cells die due to lack of oxygen caused by an obstruction in the blood flow or the rupture of an artery that feed the brain.  There are two main types of stroke.  Ischemic stroke is when a blot clot forms blocking blood flow to part of the brain.  When a clot breaks off, it can be carried through the bloodstream to the brain. Ischemic strokes account for approximately 87 percent of all strokes.

The other main type of stroke is Hemorrhagic stroke.  This occurs when a blood vessel on the brain’s surface ruptures filling the space between the brain and the skull with blood. Depending upon where in the brain and how much of the brain is affected, will determine the outcome of either type of stroke.

As a home care provider for a person recovering from a stroke, one of the most important things that you can do is educate yourself.  The more you learn about what causes a stroke and the recovery process, the more you will be able to provide quality care.

Common disabilities that a stroke victim faces include the following:

  • Loss of mobility directly after can make it difficult for a stroke patient to perform basic daily tasks such as bathing, getting dressed, feeding, getting to and from the bathroom, housekeeping, and personal hygiene.  Some survivors are able to regain mobility through physical therapy within 6 months to a year. Some people never fully recover and need permanent long-term assistance.
  • Speaking or focusing on a conversation can be a challenge that overtime may show signs of improvement.  Reading and writing are difficult.
  • Balance and coordination problems are evident.
  • Pain in certain areas of the body, such as headaches, neck, and face pain are common after a stroke.

 

Caregiving for a stroke patient can be a challenge but you won’t be alone. Rehabilitation for a person recovering from a stroke is going to require a team effort. Several people who specialize in different areas of rehabilitation will be involved in the recovery process.  As a caregiver, taking the advice of doctors and specialists and following their instructions is the best way to acquire a positive outcome.

If you have a loved one who could benefit from caregiving services in the East Bay of CA,  contact the caregivers at Hillendale Home Care. We help seniors and their families with many levels of home care service. Call (925) 933-8181 for more information.